Ono Hawaiian BBQ, the fast-casual chain known for Hawaiian-inspired plate lunches, is planning two additional San Diego County locations following its four-store debut.
Previously, What Now San Diego reported on a handful of locations coming to San Diego for the restaurant’s debut, including 555 West Mission Avenue in Escondido, 11846 Carmel Mountain Road in Carmel Mountain, 5604 Balboa Avenue, Suite B107, in Clairemont, and 1711 University Drive, Suite 110, in Vista. Now that the company has officially confirmed these locations, according to Restaurant News, Ono Hawaiian BBQ is also working on two additional stores, although those sites have not been announced yet. Guests can expect the chain’s signature island-inspired plates, fresh ingredients, and casual dining experience at all locations.
The expansion includes a mix of three end-cap locations and three freestanding drive-thru restaurants, designed to offer both convenience and accessibility for dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru customers. CEO Joshua Liang tells Restaurant News, “San Diego has been on our radar for years, and we’re thrilled to finally bring Ono’s fresh, island-inspired plates to the region. Our goal is to share the Aloha spirit with new communities while offering dishes that feature bold flavors, prepared fresh to order every day.”
Hawaiian cuisine has been growing in popularity across key markets, supported by increased searches for Hawaiian BBQ and island-style comfort dishes, according to Yelp trend data. Founded in 2002, Ono Hawaiian BBQ is a family-owned fast-casual brand with more than 120 locations across California and Arizona. The chain is known for plate lunches, poke bowls, and other island specialties, all made from scratch daily in each restaurant and grilled fresh to order.
“Entering the San Diego market marks a meaningful milestone as we continue expanding our footprint and bringing our island-inspired comfort food to new communities,” Christine Jan, Director of Marketing at Ono Hawaiian BBQ, tells Restaurant News. “Each location is designed to offer the perfect balance of convenience and quality, whether guests dine in, take out, or use our drive-thru.”
